Geodense section of the lithosphere of the Ukrainian shield along the Shepetivka – Zhytomyr – Dnipro – Volnovakha traverse

Abstract

Based on the results of transformation of one-dimensional density models using polynomial corrections to reference model AK135 for different domains of mantle of the Ukrainian Shield, a preliminary reconstruction of the Earth’s geodensity structure to depth of 2600 km was performed. The one-dimensional density models are properly correlated with gravitational field and mass of each mantle layer. Based on these constructions, the integration of the horizontally layered model with seismic stratigraphy data and the vertically block model with gravity field calculations to depth of 275 km along the Shepetivka-Zhytomyr-Dnipro-Volnovakha geotraverse was carried out. The results significantly increased the informativeness of data from two methods regarding the features of deep lithospheric tectonics within the Ukrainian Shield. The results of geological interpretation along the geotraverse show that the megablocks of the shield are best reflected in density anomalies, characterized by different densities both horizontally and in depth. The obtained features of the lithospheric structure of the Ukrainian Shield indicate the need for further research of upper and lower mantle to obtain a comprehensive interconnected model of its structure to refine the petrophysical characteristics that affect the formation of the Earth’s crust and mineral resources.